San Jose Jewelry Heist: Family Pleads for Help After Navajo Heirlooms Stolen

San Jose Police Investigate Theft of Navajo Jewelry Worth Thousands San Jose, CA – An Arizona family is appealing to the public for help after a significant theft of Navajo jewelry occurred in San Jose last week. The incident took place after the family attended a powwow at Stanford University. According to Noah Kuminiski, the value of the stolen items is estimated to be over $175,000. The family reported that thieves drilled a hole through the lock of their vehicle and stole the jewelry. "It was just devastating to see all of our hard work, our livelihood, gone," said Kuminiski, visibly upset during an interview. His grandmother, Maryetta Jackson, a Navajo jewelry artist with 50 years of experience, expressed her emotional distress, stating, "I felt as though I left a family member behind." The San Jose Police Department is investigating the theft, but so far, no suspects have been identified. The family is hopeful that someone will recognize their unique jewelry, which features special markings and the "H & J" trademark, if it appears for sale in pawn shops or online. The incident highlights the vulnerability of artists and the emotional toll of such crimes. The family's plea underscores the hope for the community's support in recovering their precious and irreplaceable handcrafted pieces.